Stone County Small Business Stories
We’re highlighting a few of the businesses choosing Stone County and the people behind them.
From family-owned shops and local favorites to creative startups and growing companies, these businesses bring energy, character, and momentum to our communities. Their stories share why they chose Stone County, how they are growing here, and the passion that drives their work.
Explore the stories of local entrepreneurs who are building something meaningful in Stone County and helping make it a great place to live, work, and visit.
2026 Stone County Small Business Stories
Lefty’s Pump and Drilling Celebrates 60 Years
For nearly six decades, Lefty’s Pump and Drilling has been a trusted name in the Ozarks—built on hard work, determination, and deep family roots. Owned and operated by Greg Evans and family, this long-standing business has been serving the community since 1966.
Preserving Memories, One Frame at a Time
For the past five years, 45 Degree Custom Framing, owned by Kirk Phillip, has been helping people in Stone County turn their memories and ideas into something truly special. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and personal service, this local business has become a trusted place for preserving life’s meaningful moments.
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From the Dock to the Table: The Story of Pier 28 Pizza & Grill
For the past five years, Gary and Sally Morris have been the proud owners of Pier 28 Pizza & Grill, a floating restaurant on Table Rock Lake at Port of Kimberling. With more than 20 years in the local food scene, the couple has created a one-of-a-kind lakeside experience that’s equal parts delicious and welcoming. Gary and Sally's daughter Meredith and husband Kevin serve as the General Managers working in the family business for years.
It’s All About the Kids: Rodeo Fun at Stone County Event Center Arena
For DeeDee and James Burk, owners of Stone County Event Center Arena, rodeo isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life that brings people and animals together in the best kind of way. Now in its eighth year, the Arena has become a beloved hub for rodeo enthusiasts of all ages in Stone County.
Ten Years of Tether Tug: How One Dog-Lover Turned a Happy Accident into a Thriving Business
When David Hayford and his wife stumbled into starting a dog toy company, they never imagined it would become their full-time passion. But here they are—celebrating ten years of Tether Tug, an interactive dog toy company built around one simple idea: helping hyper dogs burn off energy in a fun, safe way.
Bringing Live Music to Life: John Stauffer II and Black Oak Amp
For the past five years, John Stauffer II has been at the helm of Black Oak Amp, a family-owned outdoor concert and live entertainment venue near Table Rock Lake. As a locally operated business, Black Oak Amp prides itself on creating a small-business feel at every show — with John and his family personally involved in making each event memorable.
The Funky Twig: A Sweet Spot in Kimberling City
For nearly seven years, Kristie and Brody Usher has been serving up smiles at The Funky Twig, Kimberling City’s beloved small-town ice cream and coffee shop. Family-owned and operated, The Funky Twig has become a favorite gathering place for both locals and visitors looking to cool off after a day on Table Rock Lake. It is such a favorite, it has been voted the Best in Southwest Missouri for three years running.
Striking Success in Stone County: Chris & Sheri Coffman of Table Rock Lanes
Chris and Sheri Coffman are hitting strikes both on and off the lanes as the owners of Table Rock Lanes, a family entertainment center that’s been serving up fun in Stone County for the past two years. With bowling, an arcade, and a full restaurant, this local favorite has quickly become a go-to spot for families looking for affordable entertainment and a great meal.
Exploring the Natural Wonders of Talking Rocks Cavern
For 34 years, Talking Rocks Cavern has been welcoming visitors to discover the beauty hidden beneath the Ozarks. Open year-round, the attraction offers guided walking tours through a breathtaking natural limestone cave, richly decorated with stunning mineral deposits that captivate guests from the moment they step inside.
Building Back a Lakeside Legacy: Lisa Klosowski and James Kavanaugh of Cedar Hollow Resort
When Lisa Klosowski and James Kavanaugh stumbled upon a quiet little lakeside resort for sale on a Google search in 2018, they had no idea the journey they were about to embark on. What they found was Cedar Hollow Resort—a once-thriving fishing destination on the James River Arm of Table Rock Lake that had fallen into decades of decline. But with determination, grit, and a vision for something more, the couple brought it back to life.
Dooley’s Resort & Chapel: A Lakeside Legacy of Love and Hospitality
Fifteen years ago, Pat and Wendie Dooley looked at a worn-down lakeside property and saw not what it was—but what it could be. Today, Dooley’s Resort & Chapel is a thriving, heartwarming retreat tucked into the Ozark Mountains, overlooking the tranquil waters of Table Rock Lake. What began as a diamond in the rough has become a beloved destination for families, couples, and generations of guests who return year after year.
Patriot Exteriors: Local Service, Lasting Relationships
For the past three years, Patriot Exteriors has proudly served the Table Rock Lake area, offering professional pressure washing and soft washing services for both residential and commercial clients. Locally and family-owned, Patriot Exteriors specializes in house soft washing, commercial building cleaning, roof soft washing, window cleaning, gutter cleaning, equipment and concrete cleaning, and more.
A Taste of Excellence: The Rogue Chef Brings the Private Dining Experience Home
Jeff and Dana Woodward are the culinary artists behind The Rogue Chef, the only private chef business within the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce. Specializing in crafting unforgettable meals in private homes, vacation rentals, and exclusive venues, The Rogue Chef offers something truly unique for both locals and visitors to the Table Rock Lake area—a full-service dining experience brought right to your door.
Building Champions On and Off the Mat: Championship Martial Arts Branson West
Championship Martial Arts of Table Rock Lake recently marked its one-year anniversary, and owner Mike Adams has plenty to celebrate. Since opening the school’s doors in January 2024, Mike and his team have focused on more than just Taekwondo—they’ve been shaping lives.
Realizing Dreams, One Kitchen at a Time. Midwest Cabinets and Design
With four decades of experience in the cabinetry industry and 20 years serving the local area, Tom Franiak, owner of Midwest Cabinets and Design, brings both craftsmanship and customer care to the forefront of home remodeling. Specializing in kitchen and bath cabinetry, outdoor kitchens, and custom closets, Tom and his team offer everything from DIY support to full-scale remodels and new home construction. Whether it’s a cozy lake home or a luxurious estate, Midwest Cabinets delivers quality and service with a personal touch.